The Musical History of Bob & the Beachcombers - Part IV

Bob & the Beachcombers 2019

The entertainment industry in the Midwest was evolving and opportunities to perform were few and far between. Keeping the band together was challenging, but Bob, Al, Jim and Brian kept the beach party dream alive, as the band traveled to Williston, Green Bay, Ulen, Sioux Falls, Sandwich, Manson, Spencer, Fulda, Aberdeen, and all the way out to Williston.

Every other year the Beachcombers were invited to perform in front of the county courthouse in Alexandria where more than 1,200 people enjoyed their special brand of beach party music and fun.

Bob & the Beachcombers 2021

Brian eventually decided to give up the road for a job he loved managing a golf course, after retiring from a long career at Anderson Windows.

We were fortunate to bring a talented percussionist on board by the name of Michael Velasquez who was amazing on the drums and totally destroyed "Wipeout" as no one had ever done before. A year later, Al retired his Hawaiian shirt and white shorts to begin a new career in sales, and we were fortunate to recruit our good friend Kent Appeldoorn — from our years with "Gangbusters" and later "HITZ" — to take on the role of lead guitarist. Jimmy soon left Minnesota with his family for a new beginning in Arkansas.

Bob & the Beachcombers 2023

Fortunately, his son Alex stayed in Minnesota and took up his dad's position on bass guitar, lead vocals and resident class clown, while also providing tech support for all of our sound, lighting and transportation needs.

With two successful seasons at Valleyfair, appearances at the Minnesota, Wisconsin, North and South Dakota State Fairs, county fairs throughout the Midwest and their new music, contests, and ideas, the Beachcombers built a lasting reputation for first class entertainment, rock & roll family fun, original talent, and professional shows that will live on in the memories of fans across the Midwest.